How to Buy a Vanagon

Buying a used car has its pros and cons, especially if it is a foreign car like a Volkswagen. The Volkswagen Vanagon was an early model minivan available during the 1980s before most American brands were available. Familiarize yourself with the design features of a Vanagon before buying this style of used VW.

Instructions

1

Choose from a 3-speed automatic or a manual transmission style. Most stick shifts came in 4-speed versions and VW added a 5-speed option in 1986.

2

Pick a 4-wheel drive Vanagon made from 1986 to 1991; most Vanagons are rear-wheel drive.

3

Expect no more than a 4-cylinder engine in the Vanagon. Engines are 1.9 liters in size, increased to a 2.1-liter option when the 5-speed model came out.

4

Enter and exit a Vanagon from the two front doors. The sliding passenger-side door in the center of the vehicle or the back hatch is the same for all models.

5

Avoid buying Vanagon models from 1986 when significant engine design changes occurred and from 1987, the first year after the major changes. Multiple recalls occurred during those years involving fuel pump delivery systems and tank assembly parts.

6

Ask the existing owner if they have knowledge or paperwork regarding the used VW and its recall maintenance. The more recall items addressed on the vehicle, the fewer headaches there should be in the future.

7

Check with a used-car dealer specializing in foreign cars when looking to buy a Vanagon. If they do not have one on the lot, they can put you on a contact list if one comes in.

8

Call the local Volkswagen dealer and see if they have a used Vanagon or know of an available one.

9

Search the classified ads in the local newspaper, penny saver or inserts for Vanagons listed under used cars, foreign cars or Volkswagens. Finding the right vehicle may take weeks or even months, depending on the market and your location.

10

Shop online at eBay for Vanagons going up for sale or open for bid in the local area. Costs to transport are less if bought locally. See the related eHow titled "How to Buy a Car on eBay."

11

Attend car auctions and let the owner know you are in the market for a used Vanagon. If a 1989 model comes up, grab it. This year VW had few issues and recalls associated with it.

12

Expand your search to larger cities where more cars sell and foreign vehicles are more common if the local used car ads result in no success finding a Vanagon.